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Pudendal Neuralgia

Overview

What is pudendal neuralgia?

Pudendal neuralgia is a rare problem with the pudendal nerve that can affect both men and women. The pudendal nerve runs through your pelvic region, including your genitals, urethra, anus, and perineum. Your perineum is the area between your anus and genitals. The condition is also known as pudendal neuropathy, pudendal nerve entrapment, cyclist's syndrome, pudendal canal syndrome, or Alcock’s syndrome.

Pudendal neuralgia can cause pain, especially when you sit. Men with pudendal neuralgia may have pain in the buttocks, scrotum, penis, and perineum. Women with pudendal neuralgia may have pain in their buttocks, vulva, urethra, and perineum.

Latest Information About Pudendal Neuralgia

The following online resource provides the latest information on pudendal neuralgia:

  • Society for Pudendal Neuralgia (SPuN). This nonprofit organization provides accurate clinical information to people with pudendal neuralgia and health professionals who want to learn more about the condition. You can find more information at www.spuninfo.org.

References

Other Works Consulted

  • Benson JT, Griffis K (2005). Pudendal neuralgia, a severe pain syndrome. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 192(5): 1663–1668.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised September 6, 2011

Last Revised: September 6, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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